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Academic, Professional, & General
Compact Oxford Thesaurus for Students
Test yourself
Which word?
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Compact Oxford Thesaurus for Students

Which word?

Many pairs of words are easily confused because they look or sound alike but have very different meanings. It's important to make the right choice if you want your writing to be clear and accurate, so see how you do in this quick test.

Instructions:

In the sentences below, choose the correct alternative for the words in red by clicking the radio button next to your choice. Use the information here for guidance if you need help! To find out your score, press 'submit' at the bottom of the page.

 
Question 01
a) The band had a profound affect on American music.
b) The band had a profound effect on American music.
 
Question 02
a) Motorists in the area continue to flaunt the rules.
b) Motorists in the area continue to flout the rules.
 
Question 03
a) It is always a good idea to seek professional advice.
b) It is always a good idea to seek professional advise.
 
Question 04
a) I am pleased to enclose two complimentary tickets for you and a friend.
b) I am pleased to enclose two complementary tickets for you and a friend.
 
Question 05
a) Three key aspects of the economy militate against the development of democracy.
b) Three key aspects of the economy mitigate against the development of democracy.
 
Question 06
a) The cyclist was taken to hospital after colliding with a stationery vehicle.
b) The cyclist was taken to hospital after colliding with a stationary vehicle.
 
Question 07
a) The lack of housing is the principle reason that many people on the island relocate.
b) The lack of housing is the principal reason that many people on the island relocate.
 
Question 08
a) He had been poring over the books for some time.
b) He had been pouring over the books for some time.
 
Question 09
a) The company has been expanding it´s influence in East Asia.
b) The company has been expanding its influence in East Asia.
 
Question 10
a) In an attempt to defuse the situation, the government offered a compromise.
b) In an attempt to diffuse the situation, the government offered a compromise.
 
Question 11
a) He switched off all the lights accept one.
b) He switched off all the lights except one.
 
Question 12
a) Anna has a real flair for design and an instinctive sense of style.
b) Anna has a real flare for design and an instinctive sense of style.
 

 

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